San Francisco Unified Considers Distributing Condoms at Middle School

SAN FRANCISCO (AP) — San Francisco's public schools leaders are considering distributing condoms at middle schools.

School officials say the policy change comes after survey results show some young students are sexually active. The plan would be included in San Francisco Unified School District's effort to further prevent sexually transmitted diseases and pregnancy among minors.

"Students would have face-to-face with a nurse or social worker, and decide if this is the time and place to begin a sexual relationship," said Kevin Gogin with the San Francisco Unified School District.

A board committee voted Monday night to support the proposal and send it to the full board for consideration. If the board approves, there will be training for middle school staff before the program begins.

The board first adopted a policy to distribute condoms at high schools in 1991, and in 1996 the board amended the district's condom distribution program to allow parents to opt out or exclude their child from the program, according to the San Francisco Examiner.

In addition to supplying condoms at middle schools, the superintendent's recommended changes include eliminating the exemption option for parents. Parents would still be notified annually about the program.

Some board members said educating kids about sex can be life changing.